Dress Hunting

For many brides the most exciting part of being engaged is the process of finding “the perfect dress.” At one time it was a process shrouded in mystery. Now thanks to many TV shows devoted to gown selection, brides have some ideas about how to go about this wonderful experience. Some principles have stood brides in good stead for decades. Here are some areas for today’s brides to consider before they begin to look for that gown.
Many brides have a good sense of their own fashion preferences. They know what looks good on them. Think about what you wear and why it looks good. What are your fashion preferences? Are tailored, frilly, feminine, or casual? Do you want a gown that reflects those looks or is your wedding gown going to be a complete departure? Think about the “look” you want for your wedding. Look at magazines, check out websites and make notes of the styles that catch your eye. When you go into a wedding salon, one of the questions you will be asked is “Do you have any styles in mind?” The wedding consultant who will be assisting you in your selection process will prefer to start with gowns that reflect your personal tastes.

Be honest with yourself about your body shape. If you are tall, you’re lucky. Lots of gowns are made for tall brides. If you are short, you’re lucky. Many designers see the petite bride as their specialty. If you are heavier in the bust, or in the hips, or thighs or shoulders – be honest with yourself and let the wedding consultant work with you to find the perfect dress to accent or camouflage certain areas.

Think about color: Gowns are shown in bridal white, soft creamy ivory, silver, gold and all shades in between. What are your most flattering shades?

When you go into a store to try on gowns, go prepared. Wear good underwear – especially a bra and any foundation garment you think you may wish to wear under your gown. If something special is needed for the gown you ultimately choose, your wedding consultant can help with that. You should wear a shoe with the approximate heel height you’ll wear for the ceremony.

Don’t focus on your dress size. I watched a TV show in which the bride refused to consider a dress that looked fabulous on her because it wasn’t a size 2. She stated that she only wore a size 2. Well forget about the number. Every designer has his/her version of sizing. That’s why you are working with a wedding consultant. She knows her merchandise, the designers she has selected for her store and she will find you the perfect dress with the perfect fit. Don’t worry about the size and don’t order a smaller dress “planning to fit into it.” Be guided by the consultant.

Give yourself plenty of time to order the gown, be prepared to make a deposit on your order and think carefully before taking a group with you. One person whose taste you respect is truly enough – two tops! It is a special time for you to pick out the gown that means the most to you – not to cousins, godmothers and sorority friends you’ve gathered to participate in this event.

We’ve had years of experience in helping brides find the dress of their dreams. Contact Accent on Events to assist you.